Quote:
Originally posted by AXPGoBot
So now, I'll say it again, if you really feel like Greeks shouldn't have to earn the rite to be a Sister/Brother by pledging or whatever, THAT is the mockery and THAT is something that our founders would role in their graves about. I can speak for my org only: we have a high standard and a deep responsibilty, our secrets, ideals and responsibilites are not for everyone, I'd hate to see a time when just anyone can walk in and sign up for Alpha Chi Rho, and that's what some people out there (NOT NECESARILY YOU GEEKYPENGUIN, got it that time?) are pushing for. It's bad.
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I agree there should be some type of process to earn the right to know the secrets of each GLO.
However I don't think that the founders for most organizations would be rolling in their graves, simply because adding members to your association has changed drastically since the founding of many organizations.
I'd like to point out that the concept of "pledging" and rushing are more modern developments in the evolution of Greek life towards the way we know it today. Historically, reaching into the earlier part (WWI era, at the very latest I think) of the 20th Century, members would extend invitations to new members. If the potential new member accepted the invitation they would be initiated practically on the spot. For the Great Old Fraternities, that means that pledging hasn't even been the standard for a majority of their existence. (Most of this info came from the 2002 edition of
Son of the Stars Beta Theta Pi's Pledge Manual, but I can't find my copy right now so it's from memory, I apologize if the dates are slightly off).
I would like to clairify: I don't think letters are superficial, just the act of not allowing pledges to wear them. I dont' know if I've been mistunderstood, but this should clear up any misconceptions.
Finally, AXP, I think that any one can be interested in joining any GLO...that's the point of rush right? I don't think anyone is saying that there will be a time when anyone will be able to become a member just because they want to. Rush will forever remain a mutual desire operation, each side choosing to associate itself with the other party...there simply can be no other way.
Finally I would like to hear the opinions from those of you who feel very strongly about not allowing pledges to wear letters on GLO's like Delta Upsilon. Since they are non-secretive and you could go watch their ritual if they would let you, what is your take on their pledges and such. Do letters become more important, or less because of the non secretive nature?